Hand convexing vs. Edge Pro/similar system?

H

Hadji Flip Me Over

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Mar 1, 2010
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For the longest time I considered purchasing a serious sharpening system like an Edge Pro Apex, but I recently learned how to convex an edge by hand with some sandpaper and a mousepad. This method seems to work very well for general sharpening as well as edge repair, so it got me thinking that I really have no need for an Edge Pro system. I know that the Edge Pro allows for insanely shallow inclusive angles that could then be convexed, but it seems to me that same result could be achieved with enough time on the sandpaper alone.

Is there anything to gain by purchasing an Edge Pro (or similar system, like my Lansky with diamond hones) or set of water stones that I couldn't get by applying a convex edge with sandpaper?

Thanks for setting me straight on this. I'll look into it more myself, but sometimes it's easier to just ask some questions. :thumbup:
 
Sure it did. You seem to be looking for a justification to buy more sharpening gear. At the same time you are saying that you have a method that works well for you. If you want to drop the cash on the Edge Pro, Wicked Edge, stones, steels, hones, etc. that is up to you. The point is to get your knives sharp, and it seems that you already have that down to a point where you are pleased.
 
Hadji Flip Me Over said:
For the longest time I considered purchasing a serious sharpening system like an Edge Pro Apex, but I recently learned how to convex an edge by hand with some sandpaper and a mousepad. This method seems to work very well for general sharpening as well as edge repair, so it got me thinking that I really have no need for an Edge Pro system. I know that the Edge Pro allows for insanely shallow inclusive angles that could then be convexed, but it seems to me that same result could be achieved with enough time on the sandpaper alone. Is there anything to gain by purchasing an Edge Pro (or similar system, like my Lansky with diamond hones) or set of water stones that I couldn't get by applying a convex edge with sandpaper?Thanks for setting me straight on this. I'll look into it more myself, but sometimes it's easier to just ask some questions. :thumbup:
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First question you should ask is how do I want to sharpen, if you sharpen by hand now using a jig might not be to your liking as its a bit of a disconnected feel. They excel at making perfect bevels very quickly although it comes at a price for some of the top end systems like the EP and WEPS. IMO when looking to purchase sharpening equipment in the $200-$500 range you should be very sure of your purchase.I like to hand sharpen so I would recommend some benchstones, you have the hand skills already so the only real change would be abrasive and the hardness of the surface. What stones would depend on your needs and interests but I'll give a nudge to waterstones on this one for the fun and feedback factor. Waterstones, to me, are one of the more enjoyable ways to sharpen because its a bit traditional and with the occasional mess its like being a kid and getting dirty for no good reason :) The feedback side of things is that waterstones will show you instantly when and what you are doing wrong and with this you learn quickly to do it right. The feel of the bevel is also exceptional with waterstones, you will feel it "lock into" the stone and with practice you will even feel the burr form and come off. You don't need many either, 2 or 3 stones can make a respectable that will do everything from grinding to polishing. As a bonus you can even convex on them with a little practice. What are you most interested in trying?
 
Truthfully I don't think a system will give you anything you cann't do by hand. Once you can sharpen to the level you want a belt sander or some other type of power sharpener will speed up your sharpening time. I am a little biased as I much prefer a convex edge as my edge of choice for both thicker and thinner edges. Convexing on a hard hone is much easier than you'd think. It was my main method of convexing before I started useing my belt sander for most of my sharpening. Heck I even think a large shallow convex edge looks better than one of those perfectly flat smaller edge bevels.
 
The one thing a system can do is give you perfect bevels.

As to you OP, sure, get an EP if you don't want to keep it, it will re-sell very easily here.
 
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